The Covenanters

James Graham: The Marquis of Montrose (1612 - 1650)
Continued From Page One
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Charles II, Click for larger image In the aftermath of the Bishops Wars and further falling out amongst the Covenanters, Charles threatened to bring in support from Ireland. This threat was of considerable concern to Argyll, whose Clan Campbell had long been at odds with the MacDonalds in the West.

But it was not until 1644 that it came to reality. The Scottish politicians blundered badly when they hoped that Montrose would lead their army against the Irish. But Montrose had only objected to the Earl of Antrim leading them; he did not object to service of the King nor to the use of Irish soldiers in Scotland.

So it was that he changed sides and began a year of startling and often brilliant battles against the Covenanter Armies, and humiliation for the Marquis of Argyll.

Map, click for larger image Montrose wished to act with the full authority of the King but this arrived almost three months too late for him to join in an uprising by Sir John Gordon of Haddo. This attempt failed and Haddo and supporters became the first casulaties of systematic execution.

In April, 1644, Montrose had taken 1000 men with him and seized Dumfries - but had no local support - while the Marquis of Huntly had similarly seized Aberdeen for the King.

In the face of the local indifference, Huntly disbanded and retired to his castle while Montrose pondered the next step - when and if the troops from Ireland arrived.

In Ireland the Earl of Antrim's army was also delayed waiting for weapons and ammunition to be delivered, but it headed out from Fort of Passage, Waterford, on June 27, 1644. On their way across the Irish Sea the frigate "Harp" carrying Alastair McColl or MacDonald, and his officers came across three vessels, two with food and much needed provisions and the third carrying some 40 covenanters including 3 ministers - Rev Weir, Watson and Hamilton who were taken hostage.

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